Meet Ethan, Customer Service Apprentice at Arts Council England

What encouraged you to apply for an apprenticeship? 

An apprenticeship was the best choice for me – I had trouble with schoolwork, so I ruled out university and it felt difficult to get straight into a job where you can build a career. I concluded that an apprenticeship was what I wanted to do. They’re very accessible and I’ve been offered a range of support from both Arts Council England and Lifetime Training (my apprenticeship provider). 

The experience is tailored to your personal development, which is excellent for someone like me who struggled a bit during school – I often felt detached from having to learn through sitting and listening. But at the Arts Council, I feel like my concerns are listened to and that my personal and professional development is truly cared for. 

 

How would you describe your experience at the Arts Council so far? 

The experience so far has been an enriching one to say the least! I’ve been given the opportunity to learn new skills and to pick up knowledge about creativity and culture throughout England. The working environment is very warm and welcoming - I’m able to ask questions and receive excellent support. 

Plus, the role has helped me gain a healthy work-life balance and it’s been great to have the opportunity to learn more about the arts from an internal perspective. It’s also reignited my passion for acting - hearing about plays that my colleagues are partaking in or simply attending has made me want to get back onto the stage and perform again! 

 

What have you learned since starting your apprenticeship? 

One of the biggest things that I’ve learned since starting at the Arts Council is that it’s ok to not know everything. I always thought that I needed to know all the details of everything, all the time. Now I’ve been able to spend time completing my apprenticeship and trying new things, I’ve realised that a great way to grow and learn is by asking questions. It used to be something I was scared of doing, but now I’m more than happy to say ‘I don’t know this’ and pop a question to someone who might know the answer.   

 

What are your ambitions after your apprenticeship? 

After my apprenticeship, I would love to pursue a permanent role and move upwards within a company. In general, I just want to develop myself and find a role where I can thrive and grow both professionally and personally.  

Completing an apprenticeship in a working environment has been a healthy experience for me so far and I only hope that I can continue the path I’m currently taking. Thanks to this apprenticeship, I’ve been able to find the confidence to put myself out there more, which has led to me believing that my ambitions are becoming a more and more realistic goal for myself. 

 

What would you say to others thinking about applying for an apprenticeship? 
Do it. An apprenticeship is an excellent foundation, especially if you’re someone like me who couldn’t properly thrive in school. You should go for it even if you’ve already passed your A-Levels, it’s an excellent opportunity. You’ll learn new skills, meet new people and have more opportunities to experience entirely new situations - all at your own pace. All you have to do is take the leap - apply for an apprenticeship in any field that interests you and then really give it your all. Then you can be proud of what you achieve during your time, however long it takes. 

Article originally published on the Arts Council England website

 

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